Dutch citrus importer, Frukar, is expecting its first shipment of Serena Satsumas next Thursday. Mandarins from other brands have been trickling into the market for the last two weeks. "We cannot complain when it comes to the supply this year. All the citrus will be of a smaller size. In total, there will be more Spanish citrus on the market. There is talk of about 20-30% more", says Frukar's Willem Koole.
"The smaller sizes are ideal for retailers to sell in nets. These small sizes will, however, make things a bit more difficult for market sales", expects the importer. "These smaller sizes are a problem for, especially, the leaf mandarins. People prefer these to be of a larger size. But, anything is possible. If it starts raining a lot now, it could make a difference to a few sizes. Anyway, our supplier, Serena, has already indicated that they have enough large and small sizes available."
"For now, there is nothing wrong with the sales. People are often hesitant about the taste of the first Spanish mandarins. But, in my opinion, this is unjustified. A green mandarin does not always have to be sour. I would rather call them freshly sweet. When clients come in to taste these mandarins, they immediately order a pallet. Then, two days later they are back for more."
"Anything can still happen when it comes to the rest of the citrus varieties. The overseas lemons were very expensive. The overseas oranges were also reasonably priced. There will certainly be less of the large sizes (30-36-42) available. I am expecting a fair price level", concludes Willem.
For more information:
Willem Koole
Frukar
Tel: :+31 (0) 180 646 532
wkoole@frukar.nl
www.frukar.nl